Carriere Native Serves with Navy’s Weather Command Headquarters at Stennis Space Center

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Bradley Gee, Navy Office of Community Outreach [endif]STENNIS, Ms. – Most Americans rely on weather forecasts to plan their daily routine. The U.S. Navy is no different. With numerous ships, submarines and airplanes deployed around the world, sailors and civilians serving with The Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command at Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, advise Navy leaders about the impact of ocean and atmospheric conditions on future operations.

Photo By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Bradley Gee, Navy Office of Community Outreach

Mark Barousse, of Carriere, Mississippi, is one of those responsible for providing timely, comprehensive and tactically relevant information for ships, submarines, aircraft and other commands operating throughout the globe.

As a Navy survey planner, Barousse is responsible for all surveys within assigned commanders' area of responsibility.

Barousse credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned growing up in Carriere.

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“I learned to work hard and apply myself,” said Barousse. “Also, I learned to treat others the way you want to be treated.”

A key element of the Navy the nation needs is tied to the fact that America is a maritime nation, according to Navy officials, and that the nation’s prosperity is tied to the ability to operate freely on the world’s oceans. More than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water; 80 percent of the world’s population lives close to a coast; and 90 percent of all global trade by volume travels by sea.

“Naval Oceanography defines and applies the physical environment for the entire Navy fleet from the bottom of the ocean to the stars,” said Rear Adm. John Okon, Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command. “There isn't a plane that flies, a ship or a submarine that gets underway without the sailors and civilians of Naval Oceanography.”

Barousse is playing an important part in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“Our priorities center on people, capabilities and processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.”

Though there are many ways for civilians to earn distinction in their command, community and career, Barousse is most proud of completing his Senior Naval Oceanographic Office Representative qualifications.

Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for Barousse, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Barousse is honored to carry on that family tradition.

“My grandfather was a reservist in the Navy during the Korean War and my youngest brother was a submariner for six years,” said Barousse.

“Seeing their dedication to service for our country motivated me to do what I can for the country now.”

As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Barousse and other members know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.

“I love being able to come to work and learn something new every day,” added Barousse. “Also, helping to support the warfighter and safe navigation of our vessels all over the world.”